Echoes of Violence in Konduga

The insurgency in Borno State, Nigeria, has been a devastating armed conflict primarily driven by Boko Haram. The militant group’s over decade-long campaign of terror has inflicted unimaginable suffering on the civilian population, resulting in widespread displacement and the destruction of infrastructure and livelihoods. Konduga, located approximately 25 kilometres from Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, is among the Local Government Areas repeatedly targeted by Boko Haram. A recent bomb attack in the Kawuri community is a stark reminder of the town’s vulnerability. According to reports, the attack resulted in over 19 casualties and extensive property damage, further traumatising an already beleaguered population.

The persistent violence in Konduga can be attributed to various factors. First, the town’s proximity to Maiduguri makes it a strategic target for Boko Haram, which aims to destabilise the State. Additionally, Konduga’s relatively accessible location along major roads facilitates the movement of insurgents, enabling them to launch attacks, including suicide bombings, armed assaults, and abductions, with relative ease. These factors and the region’s socio-economic challenges have created a fertile ground for the insurgency to thrive.

The impacts of the insurgency on Konduga are profound. The continuous attacks have resulted in a significant displacement of the local population. As of 2024, there were over 1.8 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Borno State, with a substantial number from the Konduga area. These IDPs often live in overcrowded camps with inadequate amenities such as clean water, sanitation, and healthcare, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Agriculture, the primary livelihood for many residents, has been severely disrupted. Farmers are unable to access their fields due to the constant threat of violence, leading to food shortages and increased poverty.

It is estimated that over 70% of Borno’s population relies on agriculture, and the insurgency has led to a decline in agricultural productivity in the region. Markets and businesses have been destroyed or abandoned, devastating the local economy. Schools in Konduga have frequently been targeted or closed down due to insecurity. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reports that more than 1,500 schools in Nigeria’s North East region, including Konduga, have been destroyed since the beginning of the insurgency. This has deprived countless children of their right to education, contributing to a generation growing up with limited access to learning opportunities.

The Nigerian federal government has carried out several military operations to combat Boko Haram. Joint military campaigns, such as Operation Lafiya Dole, were launched to reclaim territories and eliminate insurgent strongholds. Despite these efforts, the insurgency persists, affirming that military solutions alone are insufficient. As of 2023, the Nigerian military reported the death of over 9,000 Boko Haram militants, yet the group remains a potent threat. The Borno State government has also taken steps to address the insurgency. Governor Babagana Zulum has been proactive in rebuilding communities and supporting IDPs. Initiatives such as reconstructing homes, schools, and healthcare facilities and providing food aid and psychosocial support have been provided. However, the scale of the destruction and the ongoing violence have made recovery efforts challenging.

Addressing the insurgency in Konduga and Borno State requires strengthening security and humanitarian measures. Enhancing the capabilities of the Nigerian military and local security forces is crucial. This includes sustained training, equipment, and intelligence-sharing. Additionally, community-based security initiatives can prevent attacks and improve trust between residents and security forces. Supporting the economic recovery of affected communities is also essential. This involves providing farmers with agricultural support, such as seeds and tools, and facilitating market access. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) should also receive support to restart their businesses. According to the World Bank, economic recovery programs in conflict zones have a significant multiplier effect, potentially reducing violence by up to 30%.

Continuing and expanding humanitarian assistance is necessary to address the immediate needs of IDPs and other affected populations. This includes food aid, healthcare services, and psychosocial support. Engaging in dialogue with defectors and providing rehabilitation programmes can help reintegrate former insurgents into society. This approach has shown promise in other conflict areas and can contribute to reducing the insurgency’s recruitment base. The Safe Corridor initiative, for instance, has successfully rehabilitated over 2,000 former Boko Haram fighters, offering them a chance to reintegrate into society. The way forward requires coordinated efforts, community involvement, and continued support from national and international stakeholders to restore stability and hope to the people of Borno State.